This tutorial is designed to give you a better understanding of the FERPA Law and how it relates to the University setting.
Student education records are official and confidential documents protected by FERPA, includes all records which are related to a student and maintained by UNK.
These records can be in any media: handwritten, print, type, film, electronic, etc.
Generally, the university must have written permission from the student before releasing information from the student's record.
One exception is categorized as directory information.
Certain information, known as "Directory Information" may be released without the student's consent. Directory information is defined as:
Take Note!
Students have the right to prevent directory information from being released through their MyBLUE dashboard or by signing a FERPA Disclosure Consent Form.
If the student elects to have directory information remain confidential then NO INFORMATION CAN BE RELEASED!
Students can add a FERPA restriction through MyBLUE or by signing a Request to Prevent Disclosure of Directory Information at the Office of the University Registrar.
Students can remove a FERPA restriction through MyBLUE or by notifying the Office of the University Registrar in writing that the restriction should be lifted.
Under certain circumstances, confidential (non-directory) education records can be released without a student's prior consent.
For example, to comply with a lawfully issued subpoena or to school officials who have a "legitimate education interest" (or a legal "right to know")
A Legitimate Educational Interest exists when the school official is:
Records should be used only in the context of official business in conjunction with the educational success of the student
Curiosity does not qualify as a legal right to know.
At the post-secondary level, parents have no inherent rights to inspect a student's records.
The right to inspect is limited solely to the student.
At UNK, information from the students records may be released to parents, same-sex domestic partners, and others ONLY with the written consent of the student.
Check a student's directory restrictions before you answer any questions.
Information may be released with a signed consent from the student.
Information viewed on a computer screen should be treated with the same confidentiality as paper records.
When in doubt, DO NOT release information. Consult with the Office of the University Registrar.
"OOPS" is not acceptable when it comes to disclosure of education records!
Announcements of honors/awards
Employer verification of degree information
Communications from businesses
Communications from UNK Student Organizations